Nissan Micra to get drastic face-lift

The Nissan Micra is to undergo a thorough face-lift that will toughen the exterior looks and boost perceived quality of the car's interior.

Nissan wants to remove some of the car's 'cuteness', according to the car maker's executive vice-president for product planning, Andy Palmer.

He said: 'The Micra needs to look more masculine; it has always looked cute.'

The changes will bring a brand-new nose, with changes to the front bumper and grille.

Palmer also revealed that the car would receive significant upgrades to its interior perceived quality, following criticism of the current car's cabin.

The basic layout is expected to remain much the same, but the quality of the materials and switchgear used is expected to improve. However, because the Micra will be offered in many and varied international markets, the improvements will only apply to countries such as the UK.

Nissan has shown a tweaked version of the Micra at the Thailand motor show, but a company spokesman confirmed that the UK-spec car will not look like the show car.